Swallow

Kurt Kernan Swallow saddled up and rode away, free from pain and restrictions of his earthly body, on May 11. Kurt was born in Antigo, Wisconsin on February 7, 1944 to Benjamin and Bertha (Damm) Swallow. He moved to Montana at an early age to Wilsall where Ben logged up the Shields River. Later, the family moved to Two Dot, where Ben worked for Henry Pump. Kurt attended grade school at Two Dot and graduated in 1963 from Harlowton High School. He enlisted in the National Guard and went to Fort Ord for basic training and later was at Fort Sill, OK. After his time in the military, Kurt and Ben logged out of Martinsdale. A friend, Gene Sondeno, introduced Kurt to his sister-in-law, Billeta Hogemark. They were married September 22, 1973. Kurt and Billeta purchased and operated the Conoco gas station. Kurt delivered fuel and pumped gas to the Martinsdale/Lennep area for many years. He also enjoyed logging and operated a small sawmill. After closing the gas station he lived his best life riding, working and haying for Lloyd Zumbrun. Kurt was preceded in death by his parents Ben and Bertha; best friend Sherrie Zumbrun; and numerous dogs and horses. He is survived by his sister Patricia Crowley; children Kay (Todd) Hiner and Jay (Karri) Swallow; grandchildren Alia, Romulus and Logan. Memorials can be made to the Martinsdale Community Hall and listen to an old country ballad by Marty Robbins, Don Edwards or Ian Tyson. Graveside services will be held on Saturday, May 16 at the Lennep Cemetery at 2:00 p.m.